Footscray midfielder Clay Smith made up for lost time with an impressive 36-possession game in his comeback from a third knee reconstruction.
Smith’s impact was vital in the Bulldogs’ seven-point victory over Geelong in what turned out to be a low-scoring VFL nailbiter at Whitten Oval on Saturday.
A fast start was the key to Footscray’s win, the Dogs leading by 25 points at quarter-time and staying thereabouts to win 9.13 (67)-8.12 (60).
Gallant Geelong refused to go away quietly, clawing its way back into the contest bit by bit and providing a real scare for the hosts, who could manage just one behind in a last-quarter arm wrestle.
In the end, it was a memorable return for Smith, who is rated highly by all at the kennel and will look for a solid run of VFL matches before pressing his claim for senior selection.
Kieran Collins, Lin Jong and Jed Adcock, all players who have tasted AFL action this season, were important contributors for the Dogs.
Brad Lynch showed his versatility to bob up for two goals, while Jong and Mitch Hannan also booted two.
Footscray, which is sixth on the ladder, will hit the road on Sunday to take on Frankston.
Reigning premiers Williamstown moved to the top of the ladder with a 30-point win over Frankston in Ed Carr’s 100th club game.
The Seagulls paid tribute to former player Ben Kelly, who died suddenly aged 36 in the week leading up to the game. Kelly played in two Williamstown reserves premierships and 13 senior games when the club was aligned with Collingwood.
This season, Kelly was working as a coaching co-ordinator at Williamstown Juniors and Williamstown CYMS.
Willie Wheeler, Sam Dunell and David Fahey were the standouts for Williamstown in the victory over the Dolphins.
Jack Dorgan, Leigh Masters and Ayce Cordy booted two goals apiece for the Seagulls, who replaced Casey Scorpions in first place. But it could be a fleeting time at the top for the Seagulls, who are one of five teams with a bye this weekend.
